Asuka

Asuka is located 25 kilometers south of Nara city. Present day Asuka was proclaimed to be a historic town under the national Special Arrangement for Preservation of Historic Sites Law in 1966, which limits constructions and other civil engineering operations in designated areas in order to preserve historic sites. This is the same regulation in current day Kyoto, Nara, and Kamakura. Asuka is known for being one of the oldest capitals of Japan during the Asuka period, leaving behind a great deal of ancient Japanese artifacts tombs. Travelers from all over the world come to Asuka to enjoy the atmosphere and vibe of many ancient well-preserved districts of Japan.

Asuka was the first Imperial Capital where a centralized government emerged before it was moved to Nara. The administration was based on Chinese Models. It was also a time when Buddhism was imported from the Asian Mainland and adopted to be made the state religion among the ruling class. It is said that Asuka Temple was the first full scale temple in Japan. It was established in the 6th century and Soga-no-Umako invited artisans from Paekche, the ancient kingdom in Korea, to construct the temple. There are palace remnants where an emperor once assumed the throne as well as stone structures who purposes are still unknown.

Things To Do in Asuka